On the morning of December 19, nine Third Class Petty Officers from VP-6 were frocked to Second Class. Presided over by Blue Shark Skipper CDR B. L. Tempel, the ceremonies sailed along smoothly until Skipper Tempel unveiled the newest Blue Shark Tradition: Alms to the Skipper. In remarks of undetermined origin, Skipper Tempel told the frockees, their families and the assembled Blue Sharks that, though the new Blue Shark Second Class Petty Officers weren't yet being paid as E-5's, they should, in keeping with this "long-standing tradition", give over" at least 10% of their first E-5 paycheck - preferably cash, but a check will do - to the Skipper's fund" Never ones to be fooled, however, two of the nine Blue Shark advancees neglected to contribute to the Skipper's general fund.